I also get the impression that there are character flaws which are considered cool, so it's ok if they go unchallenged as long as the character's backstory is tragic enough. (BBG Astarion is a prime example for that.)
I'm not necessarily sure thats a fair assumption. I think to be a bit more understanding, it's important to remember some issues will just speak more to certain people! And certainly personality traits will just be more off putting to certain people.
Everyone is different in their perspectives and priorities! Karlach is a really prime example. Can't speak much on Gale, as I have my own personal reasons for finding him uncomfortable. But a player who values maybe a more stark view of reality, and tough pragmatism, may be put off by someone such as Karlach who enforces (what I feel) is a very naive outlook, in a way that feels very immature.
I wouldn't say that has anything to do with "what's cool" by any means! I think it's valid to just find some things off putting.
I appreciate when the characters have shortcomings and there are inconsistencies which portray how they struggle with their identiy and self image.
Oh, this is well said. This is the perspective I can ultimately come to with the characters I dislike. Even if, from a roleplay perspective, I wouldn't bring it into the game, I as player can still sit back and enjoy the characters through filters like this. I think it's interesting how it can tie in so well with the concept the tadpoles bring, of the greatest monster of the game being inside everyone's own mind.
